Finding Comfort in Discomfort by Chahna Gupta
When most people hear “yoga,” “breathwork,” or “meditation,” they think of stretching, relaxing, or calming the mind. But yoga is far more than a physical workout.
Yoga is a spiritual science. Spiritual because it connects us with ourselves and something greater — whether that’s nature, the universe, or God. Science because, like any disciplined study, it involves observation, experimentation, repetition, and recording results. That’s exactly how yoga developed: its knowledge was memorized and passed from teacher to student for generations before it was finally written down 2,000 years ago in the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali.
Yoga, breathing, and meditation are focusing strategies that help us understand our limits, expand our capabilities, and gain greater control over our responses. These tools are incredibly versatile — they can be used to deepen spiritual connection, sharpen mental clarity, or simply navigate life’s daily challenges. Because the truth is, none of us can control everything. Life will surprise us. People will surprise us. And in those moments, our ability to remain steady makes all the difference.
For example, I could put you in a state of panic right now. You’re probably thinking, Cute little you? Really? Well, let me show you. Up to the challenge? You have to follow my directions though. And as always, consult your physician before practicing and listen to your body!
Bring your head down and relax your gaze or close your eyes. Now, lower your chin and slowly exhale all the air out of your body, then hold it for as long as possible. The point of this exercise is to notice: where does the mind go? Does it panic and want to breathe immediately, or can you calmly tell yourself, I’m fine, I can breathe whenever I want to, and push a little further? When stress arises unexpectedly, the mind often fluctuates even more.
This is just one example of how pranayama — the yogic art of controlling the life force energy (the breath) — can train us to remain calm even in uncomfortable situations.
In the world we live in today, we can’t control what other people do or say — we can only control our response and do our best to be non-reactive. It’s like defensive driving versus aggressive driving, but with the mind.
Our mind is controlling everything. We don’t even have to focus on breathing most of the time, and that’s a parallel for how many of us move through life — going through the motions and feeling like we have no control. The homework for you — not just for today or next year, but for life — is to incorporate breathing practices that make you comfortable in a state of discomfort. Practice elongating the pauses between each breath. When you find comfort in the pause, you gain the ability to control the mind, rather than letting the mind — or a situation — control you.
About the Author
Chahna Tailor Gupta is passionate about Ayurveda, yoga, and holistic well-being, blending ancient wisdom with modern living. Through Namaste Life Events, she creates community-driven experiences that promote balance, longevity, and wellness. With a focus on mindful movement, plant-based nutrition, and sustainable practices, she helps individuals cultivate healthier lifestyles. Her mission is to empower communities with accessible wellness practices, fostering connection, purpose, and vitality for a more balanced life. Come say Namaste at LifeMarketFL.com.
